An alcohol withdrawal tool for use in hospitals.

An estimated 40% of patients admitted with alcohol-related problems to Glasgow hospitals are at risk of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). Not managing them effectively can affect the physical and psychological wellbeing of staff and other patients. This article describes the development and implementation of a tool, the Glasgow Modified Alcohol Withdrawal Scale, to manage patients with AWS. It is part of a more comprehensive assessment and management protocol and incorporates a protocol to help nurses decide whether to administer fixed-dose or symptom-triggered benzodiazepine to these patients.